UAE-led fraud crackdown: $39 billion traced, 123 million scam attempts stopped, over 960 arrested

The UAE is working with international partners to combat cross-border digital fraud and other technology-related crimes through cooperation between law enforcement agencies, governments, technology companies and financial service providers.

Operation “Confronting the Ghost” has brought together 30 countries, 13 private-sector partners and two international organisations to address artificial intelligence-enabled fraud, digital financial crimes and technology-facilitated sexual extortion, according to Dr Monica Kathina Juma, Executive Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).

Dr Juma described the operation as an example of international cooperation in tackling emerging forms of crime.

She also acknowledged the support of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, for international cooperation initiatives, and commended the UAE’s role in coordinating partnerships and efforts related to the operation.

She said the UAE’s involvement reflected the country’s commitment to international cooperation and efforts to promote global security and stability.

Intelligence sharing and law enforcement cooperation

The UAE Ministry of Interior said it continues to work with countries, international organisations, technology companies and financial service providers to combat cross-border digital fraud, protect individuals and institutions, and pursue those suspected of involvement in such crimes.

The ministry highlighted the role of real-time intelligence sharing and coordination between law enforcement agencies and relevant authorities in identifying suspicious activities and tracing illicit financial flows.

It said the exchange of information and expertise helps authorities develop and implement practical measures to target criminal networks and address their activities across national borders.

Criminals exploit digital platforms and cryptocurrencies

Dr Juma noted that the increasing use of digital technologies and artificial intelligence in fraudulent schemes presents additional challenges for authorities.

Criminals also exploit digital platforms, bank accounts and cryptocurrencies to transfer funds and conceal their origins, highlighting the need for continued improvements in investigative methods and international cooperation.

Authorities must continue developing measures to address these activities and strengthen coordination between the agencies involved, she said.

The operation reflects efforts to improve cooperation among countries, international organisations and private-sector partners in responding to digital crime, particularly offences that involve multiple jurisdictions and the use of emerging technologies.

Key Facts

• 30 countries, 13 private-sector partners and two international organisations participated in Operation “Confronting the Ghost”.

• Targeted crimes: AI-enabled fraud, digital financial crimes and technology-facilitated sexual extortion.

• UAE cooperation: The Ministry of Interior works with international partners, technology companies and financial service providers to combat cross-border fraud.

• Intelligence sharing: Real-time information exchange helps detect suspicious activities and trace illicit financial flows.

• Emerging threats: Criminals exploit digital platforms, bank accounts and cryptocurrencies to transfer funds and conceal their origins.

• UN recognition: UNODC Executive Director Dr Monica Kathina Juma commended the UAE’s role in coordinating international cooperation.